ODST Legendary

[Neodymium]

http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/jdbnsn/worklogbanners/ODST.png


Hello All,

After being inspired by what J-Roc did with the Citrus G5 (Like here - http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showpost.php?p=188323&postcount=99, I decided to finally do one of my own.

I want to paint the case like he did, however, it will be a black (Intel Skull) or ODST green motif (see where I am going with it? :) ). Let me know what you guys think:D

I have been waiting to get my hands on a G5 case and that came to fruition today:banana: I got the G5 (Dont know what the processor is, but its Liquid Cooled - see pics).

I am planning to do my mod with the following hardware:
- BIOSTAR TA890GXB HD Socket AM3 AMD 890GX + SB850 Chipset Dual Channel DDR3 1600(OC)/1333/1066/800 MHz with an AMD PHENOM II QUAD CORE X4 830 2.8 GHZ (OR) Gigabyte GA-P55-UD3R socket 1156 Intel P55 with a Core i5 650 (don't have the processor yet :crossed:)
- 8 GB RAM - CORSAIR XMS3 1600 GHZ
- Intel X-25M 160 GB SSD
- Seagate Barracuda 1TB SATA HDD
- Pioneer BluRay Burner
- AMD Radeon HD 6870 Black Edition 1GB
- Reuse Case Fans from the G5
- No LED stuff except for the Intel Skull pattern on the side panel (If I go with the Intel theme)
- Scythe Kama Panel - Not going to use this - cannot fit it with current plan - using Dell front panel instead

Parts I still need to get (in the works):
- Motherboard tray (debating this - either get an old case or order LianLi)
- CPU cooler - depending on if I can get my hands on the i5
- Plexiglass sheet for mounting LEDs

Here are some pics of the G5 I bought today. Scratched a bit here and there but in good shape. But I'm going to paint it anyways, so no worries there...nothing a little sanding cant take care of...

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0209.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0215.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0214.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0213.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0210.jpg

My plan is to work on this mod adhoc - i.e whenever I am not on the road and the wife and kids don't need me. Hopefully I will stick to a schedule :crossed:. If anyone has any guidance or words of wisdom for someone trying to do their first mod, let me know! Thanks. :)

[Neodymium]

OK, I checked on the net to find out how to dismantle a LC G5, and boy, what a pain! I flipped through pages and pages of info and finally decided to follow this guide http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Repair/Installing-Power-Mac-G5-Processor-and-Cooling-Unit/1953/1. Any comments or guidance on other guides is appreciated. Thanks!

[Neodymium]

So moving along the disassembly continues (and with a silly unthoughtful rookie mistake - I should know my tools!:facepalm: - see pic.. :redface:

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0222-1.jpg

I will bring out the dremel tomorrow, for now, its the Leafs in Buffalo. http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff194/trammybucket/goleafsgo.gif

[Neodymium]

Theme decision made...Project ODST will be a military green with gunmetal finish. I have to figure out how to etch/incorporate the design into the side of the case...still trying to keep away from LEDs in the case, but might consider RED LEDs for the eyes...http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/ODST_Legendary.png

Comments or feedback appreciated. Thanks.

Here's what the case looks like now with the motherboard placed in it. I have to do something similar to what J-Roc did as the top separator would block the PCI slots http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showpost.php?p=175958&postcount=20

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0228.jpg

[billygoat333]

Nice! I will be watching this one.

[Fuganater]

That is one crazy looking CPU cooler.

[Technochicken]

I love G5 mods! Do you have any plans for the liquid cooler? I did my G5 conversion with an air cooled version, so I couldn't really reuse the CPU coolers, but it may be possible to reconfigure the liquid cooler to work with standard hardware.

[Neodymium]

@Fuganter - it is isn't it? Its a monster!

@Technochicken - The LC is controlled by the Open Firmware and don't think we can hack that yet :) Also, the cooling is not rated for anything new (i series or AMDs), air cooling will beat it out! That said no harm in checking up on LC mods ;)

[Neodymium]

Nice! I will be watching this one. thanks ... hope I won't disappoint :crossed:

[Neodymium]

Here's what I am looking at building from either bondo..please go easy on me...its only an artist's rendering :) I'll really have to work on the final product!

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0230-1.jpg

I will see if I can get some more of the case cleanup done tomorrow.

[d_stilgar]

I would build with wood and finish with bondo. The less you do with bondo the better in my experience. It's not difficult to deal with, but not an ideal sculpting material. It's great for filling small gaps and smoothing surfaces, but not great for building up a large volume just to sand back down again.

[Neodymium]

I would build with wood and finish with bondo. The less you do with bondo the better in my experience. It's not difficult to deal with, but not an ideal sculpting material. It's great for filling small gaps and smoothing surfaces, but not great for building up a large volume just to sand back down again.
Thanks for the advice! Do you think I can use DAS clay instead and use a wire frame for backing?

[d_stilgar]

Thanks for the advice! Do you think I can use DAS clay instead and use a wire frame for backing?

That . . . I don't know.

[Neodymium]

So this morning, I set out to see if I can find some of the parts that I still need. Am I lucky or what...presenting to you....some of the donors for the project :D The victims don't know what's coming their way!:evil:

Old case! :banana: Also, just found out that it had a wireless card in it...:up:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0235-1.jpg

I really got lucky with this one! :banana:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0232-2.jpg

Ma, look what I found!!!!!! (Of everything else I wanted to find, didn't expect this one...LOL!)
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0238.jpg

I will try and do something today, if not I'm out until Friday (traveling on business). I will get back on it when I return.

[Neodymium]

Note on building the sculpture for the front like in the sketch...

I took d_stilgar's advise and called up these folks http://www.exotic-woods.com/product.aspx?s=basswood (Exotic Woods). Seems they have wood that really yields itself to sculpture, called basswood. I will see if they have the sizes I am looking for when I get back.

I also had another idea with air drying modeling clay, like this one https://www.currys.com/catalogpc.htm?Category=A191B004609 (DAS Modeling clay at Curry's), which is easy to manage. I was thinking about building a wireframe base, then model the shield, SMGs and the Skull in that order. Then make holes once everything is ready for mounting and for the LEDs (RED ones connected to HDD activity LED...that's what I am thinking for now).

Let me know what you think!

[Neodymium]

Here are some of the other participants in the project :D

Biostar board with Phenom II X4 830 mounted in it http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0231.jpg

HD6870 and Corsair XMS3's
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0243.jpg

Corsair cooler:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/H50.jpg

SSD:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0247-1.jpg
Also, here are my initial thoughts on the layout. See the ducting, I am thinking I will deflect the air through them around the shield that will go on the front and hopefully, I will be able to maintain the airflow.
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0245.jpg

[AmEv]

Someone ship me an AM3 ATX board, so I can stuff my current board into my PowMac G3!
(or help me out with dreaded sponsorship....)

You make me want to revive the project!

[Neodymium]

Someone ship me an AM3 ATX board, so I can stuff my current board into my PowMac G3!
(or help me out with dreaded sponsorship....)

You make me want to revive the project!

Thanks AmEv...I'm going to end up with 4 motherboards in a span of 2 days :facepalm: Too much of procurement! I already have the AMD board, a P55 board, an Intel Q67 board from the dell and the new 1155 P67 board I will be getting soon...

If I dont end up using it, maybe you can? ;)

[AmEv]

We'll see soon enough.



Have fun with that T-Bird and a crappy HS clip.

[Neodymium]

The hapless victim fell to the driver and it's ilk, the drill - gave up the goodies I needed :devfrown: Here's the damage:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0248.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0249.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0250.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0251.jpg
And then -
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0252.jpg
We have the tray and the IO shield!

That's it for me until Friday...on the road for a couple of days. :D

[Neodymium]

OK, just got back from my trip. I will post some more stuff tomorrow. But for tonight, here are my thoughts. I was originally going to use the front IO panel from the G5, but after I got the Dell, I realized, I can use that front panel and not have the Shield interfere with operation of the panel. Here is a pic of the panel itself and I am thinking about positioning at the very bottom of the front side (just above the power supply enclosure).

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0257-1.jpg

[Technochicken]

I rewired the original G5 front panel for standard headers, and it works perfectly. I found the pinouts for everything here:

http://www.insanelymac.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=109381

If you don't want to do it yourself, some people on insanelymac sell pre-made adapters.

[Neodymium]

I rewired the original G5 front panel for standard headers, and it works perfectly. I found the pinouts for everything here:

http://www.insanelymac.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=109381

If you don't want to do it yourself, some people on insanelymac sell pre-made adapters.

Thanks TC...the shield I'm working on is going to pretty much fill the width of the case. So instead of using the original io ports, I thought it would be easier to relocate the panel further down. Checkout my sketch of the shield from the first page. If I am going to carve the Shield-SMG-Skull from wood like it was suggested before, then it would go from one side to the other all the way.

Appreciate the feedback.

[Neodymium]

I removed the front IO panel of the Dell and here are the parts from it
- Front USB/Audio
- The little white squares are LEDs
- The power switch assembly along with the cable

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0259.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0260.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0261.jpg

I am not sure how the LEDs work, but am assuming they're for HDD activity, etc. Have to figure out how to get them working with the motherboard I end up using.

The updated plan is to use the shield on the front spanning left to right and most of the front (like in the picture).

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0264-1.jpg

Here's a pic of the SMGs (courtesy Bungie...love those guys) I am going to either carve or model from clay. I am not really sure what my carving skills are, but I can play around with some putty before I make the final design.
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/hodst-silenced-smg.jpg

I am hoping to keep the G5 as close to the original as possible, including the back plate. Sometime today, I am going to completely disassemble the G5 case and prepare the case for painting.

[Neodymium]

So I finally dismantled the case! What a PITA! Half the weight of the case must be just screws and nuts! :facepalm: Here are the parts ready for sanding (I'm borrowing an orbital sander from my neighbor):

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0265.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0266.jpg

The pic below is showing all the motherboard mounts still in place. I am not sure who said it, here on TBCS or another forum, the posts can be repositioned, trimmed and JB welded to fit my MB tray :up: That way, I also get the height to accommodate the back panel.

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0267.jpg

Also, as mentioned by a modder named Cyprio in a worklog he posted on bit-tech, I am going to keep the sliding door mechanism for the optical drive. That is really an amazing piece of Apple engineering.

For all the folks that are following this worklog, firstly, my thanks! I do have a question that I am looking for some thoughts on...I thought I would never use LEDs in this build, but am thinking, what if I used a couple of very dim (low voltage) LEDs and embed them in the plexi airflow panel that comes with the G5. Please let me know what you think.

I'm going to work on some playdough to get some ideas on how I am going to shape the shield/smg/skull tonight. I will post some pics regardless of the outcome, maybe someone might get a laugh out of it :D

[Neodymium]

Did some more planning on the color and design...the green should be darker on the final result and the orange should be more reflective - like the visor in ODST. Here's a preliminary artist's rendering of the view from the left side of the case. Sorry, I know it's not perfect and my skills are not the greatest :)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0269-1.jpg

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0272.jpg

[Neodymium]

I went out yesterday to shop for some modelling clay (found what I was looking for @ Curry's) - to build the front piece.

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DASClay.jpg
Here are the approximate measurements of each of the pieces (Shield/SMG/Skull)
Shield: 7in width x 10in height x 1/4in depth
SMGs: 7.5in width x 10.5in height x 1/4in depth
Skull: 5.5in width x 6.5in height x 1/4in depth

I was hoping to play with some playdough earlier, but didn't get a chance to...I will do a quick mockup today to try my hand with it and see how it turns out. If the results come out satisfactory, I will move on to working with the clay itself.

The design on the right side of the case is going to be tricky, I want to incorporate it into the layers of the paint itself than being a vinyl on top once painting is done...there should be a technique to it, just have to find it.

Paint color still needs to be chosen...I am looking for a drab olive grey color...I may have to mix a couple together...our local crappytire store sells Krylon Camo paints...will visit them today. Also checked on Molotow (chromium oxide green or black green - like in the pic) which resembles what I am looking for, the store didn't carry it but can be ordered online.
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/Black-Green-1.gif

I'll post my adventures with the playdough shortly...

[Neodymium]

Quick update. I tried to keep the G5 as intact as possible, however, I had to resort to cutting the back panel completely to accommodate a single fan vs both fans. I am strapped for cash, so I am reusing some of the parts from the backplate from the donor system. I am going to reuse the standoffs like this guy did here and place the motherboard tray (from donor case) over them: http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/cianalas/Hac%20Pro%20G5/IMG_0790.jpg and here: http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/cianalas/Hac%20Pro%20G5/IMG_0787.jpg
Once the JB weld cures, then I can start sanding. Also, I am planning to soundproof the case as J-Roc did here: http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/6710/1002452gt5.jpg

Playdough didn't work...too soft to hold the shape...I am going to buy some styrofoam to make mould's for the three pieces. I am going to work on the Power Supply mod tonight.

[Neodymium]

So I set about doing some more work today, in between "real work" :whistler: but ran into a design issue...my brain didn't register the logic for a minute...so here's my drawing of how I am going to do my whole back panel. I have the aluminium sheet and my neighbor has graciously offered to help with it...so we tackle the back plate tomorrow!

Also, thanks to some guidance from Technochicken, I gained most of my clarity back - brain was :dead: for some reason, but am on track with help from friends :D

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0273.jpg

Also, thanks to more help from Technochicken, I am going to modify the original fans and not the 80mm's...so all (mostly) fans will be put to use!

Here's my power supply, cheap one from Top Power (Never heard of them before), and I'm going to void the warranty to install it into the PS enclosure at the bottom! :) :
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0275.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0276.jpg

I will post pics of the PS as well once I am done...either I go through with putting the whole PSU in the original case or dismantle it completely, pics will be here :)

Until then...yours truly

[Neodymium]

Aight, worked some more on the PSUs...I really lucked out with this one...no cutting, nothing...just took the internals from ATX case and put them in the G5 PS case...even the connector fits like a glove...not sure what to do with the big honkin' fan though :D

Pics:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0287-1.jpg

End result:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0288.jpg

Only thing left is to cut slots for power switch and voltage selector, then close the box up and I am good to go...for now...

[Neodymium]

PS is almost ready. I bolted the PS down to the case using screws. Case is almost ready to go on. Need to cut slot for power switch and extend the slot where the cables come out. I will post the completed PS later today...

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0292.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0289.jpg

I rewired the back fans 5v and used a power switch to MB cable to connect them to the PS.
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0291.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0290.jpg

Have a few meetings today, but will become a little free around 6PM...I will work on the back panel and the rest of the fans then.

Still to be done:
- Shield/SMG/Skull front piece
- Etching/Engraving right panel (UNSC logo)
- Cut slots for front IO panel/power switch
- Back panel
- Sanding/priming
- Ordered paint (will get here in about 1 week or so)
- Fans

[Fuganater]

Very interesting PSU mod.

[Neodymium]

Very interesting PSU mod.
Thanks! I guess it was because of the power supply I bought...I have seen a lot of other PS mods which, well, had a lot of work to be done on them...in this case, it was almost a straight swap.

Also, there is a ton of space left in the PS enclosure...maybe something can go in there :)

[Neodymium]

Finished the Power Supply (Finally!)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0293.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0296.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0297.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0294.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0295.jpg

I moved the on/off switch to the top so I don't need to cut anything in the grill.

Next up, back panel...

[AmEv]

That way, if your heatsink falls off, it can quickly hit the switch and save your procy :P :whistler:

[Neodymium]

LOL...that was good...hopefully, it won't and I still get to :banana:

[Neodymium]

All work and no play...so I thought I would have myself a laugh with something going around my brain...just randomness ;)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/Halo-Reach_2-1.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/0488f326cd3e076e994870e4742be528-1.jpg

and says to himself when safe:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/odst-1.jpg

[Technochicken]

Good job with the PSU. It should look really clean once it's installed in the case.

[Neodymium]

Good job with the PSU. It should look really clean once it's installed in the case.
Thanks TC, most of the credit goes to you for the PSU modding :D

[Neodymium]

I started working on the fans and so far the PCI and the front intake fans are done...I will post pics once all fans are ready. I used Technochicken's guide here: http://build-its.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-to-fit-your-pc-in-power-mac-g5-case.html

Also, I changed the motherboard/CPU combo I thought I was going to use. Instead of my original plan to use AMD, I went out this evening and got me one of the newer Z68 based boards. I am going to use the i5 2500 in it. Pic of the board below:

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0298.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0299.jpg

So, this is going to be an all Intel build :)

More pics later today or early tomorrow (unboxing the MB + Fans)

[Neodymium]

Hit a snag...the Corsair H50 is no good...I am going to return it to NCIX. Anyone have any thoughts on these?

Liquid cooling:
Coolit ECO
http://img.ncix.com/images/50327_l.jpg

or Antec Kuhler
http://img.ncix.com/images/59537_l.jpg


or go air cooling with the Scythe Susanoo:
http://img.ncix.com/images/60009_l.jpg

Appreciate any guidance...

[d_stilgar]

Coolit stuff is traditionally very good, but they are big turds to their customers. Every time I've talked to them I've felt chided for really no reason other than not being a large company trying to sign a big contract. Also, Corsair essentially uses Coolit stuff with the Corsair name on it. I personally would rather try again with Corsair again (maybe upgrade) before going to Coolit. Really, I've been that disappointed.

Also, Corsair stuff should work with Corsair Link, which is pretty awesome. The promised Coolit Maestro was never released and was essentially sold to Corsair as the Corsair Link.

Scythe tends not to perform as well as you would expect for how extremely large and heavy some of their coolers are. Still, I've used their stuff in the past (the Orochi) and still like them a lot. They have lots of original stuff and their fans are really really quiet.

I don't know anything about the Antec Kuhler (is that pronounced "cool-er"? (irony)), and I'm fairly indifferent about them as a brand. I've never used their cases. I know they're good but they just never caught my attention enough for me to want to buy one. Maybe someone else here can chime in.

[AmEv]

Well, Antec is known for awesome PSUs....

[Neodymium]

Thanks guys, I looked up my local dealers here...I think based on my budget, there are only a few choices, and the companies offering the liquid cooling products are limited...Corsair, Antec and maybe Coolit and Intel...the rest is air! I'm going to keep your feedback in mind while I keep looking...thanks!

As I mentioned before, here are the pics of the MB and the back panel I am working on.

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0301.jpg
Accessories:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0302.jpg

Back panel...still debating whether I want 2 fans or 1 120mm...
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0300.jpg

[Neodymium]

Damn the "real" jobs! Too much of work loaded on me all of a sudden!

I haven't had a lot of time to do anything, but I was able to work on a couple of things..back panel etc.

I mounted the rear IO panel frame onto the back panel to see what I can do with fans.
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0303.jpg

Based on what I see, I can mount the 2 80mm fans like in the pic (one from the PCI mount, which I am replacing with another 80mm and the HDD cage, which I will also replace with another 80mm. I am not overly concerned about clearance issues as I am going to liquid cool the CPU anyway. The plan is to install the rad on the other side of the MB instead of the backplate.

I am going to reuse the PCI fan, the 2 fans for the motherboard and the HDD fan. I still don't have any plans for the 140mm fan I removed from the ATX PS. Have to see how I can make it useful in the case...
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0304.jpg

Now, back to the grind...:(

[Neodymium]

Trying to juggle everything that still needs to be done on this mod...so went out to get some more testing supplies for the shield assembly...I'm going to work on that for the next few days...trying my hand at sculpting...hopefully it will turn out ok..:crossed:

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0305.jpg

Left to right:
- Styrofoam balls - skull design
- Sculpting tool kit
- Major Combat! He doesn't know what's coming :devious: - purpose will be updated later
- Modelling clay
- Top: Dowels for support within the sculptures

Here's a bigger shot of the Major:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0306-11.jpg

I'll post pics as I progress

[Neodymium]

I was really having trouble with visualizing the 3 layers from the picture, so I decided to really put my thoughts into 3 layers...here's how they look like...I will start with the clay either later tonight or tomorrow...

Shield:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0310-2.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0312-1.jpg

The skull will sit slightly above the center of the shield on top of the guns...

[Neodymium]

This morning my alarm didn't go off :whistler: so I called it in...

Thought I'd get some sanding done outside and as soon as I stepped out, this is what happened...WT@?
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0315.jpg

So back to indoor stuff...

[Neodymium]

So this is the first time in my life I tried using modelling clay :D

I used the styrofoam ball and cut in in half first to give me a surface to start moulding the skull on to.
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0320.jpg

Then I took the modelling clay ($1 at the dollar store) and started on the shaping of the skull...good thing it was only from the dollar store...so here's what I ended up after some trial and error...
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0328.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0327.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0325.jpg

This is mostly from looking at a picture of a skull on the net...

I'm going to try tweaking it a little more...need to make the skull elongated...looks too short?

[jdbnsn]

Here ya go, you can edit and paste into your first post...



http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/jdbnsn/worklogbanners/ODST.png

[Neodymium]

Here ya go, you can edit and paste into your first post...



http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/jdbnsn/worklogbanners/ODST.png

IT'S AWESOME!!!!!!! TY TY TY TY!!!!! :banana:

[AmEv]

Here ya go, you can edit and paste into your first post...



http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/jdbnsn/worklogbanners/ODST.png


Where can I get one of those????

For ModCron!

[Neodymium]

Where can I get one of those????

For ModCron!

I posted my request in one of the first 3 - 4 topics in Work in Progress...and JDBNSN did his magic :D

[AmEv]

So did I!

[jdbnsn]

yeah yeah, you are on my list of to-do's homie. I'll get you one soon, promise

[AmEv]

Okay, no rush.

[Neodymium]

No new updates to post...waiting for the clay skull to dry, so I can do a dry run on it with paint...weather is supposed to let up tomorrow...so might get down to some sanding :D

I'm also going to sculpt the SMGs tonight using carving foam and get the clay on them for the final tweaks.

[Neodymium]

So, the clay still didn't cure, maybe another 24 hours for me to be able to paint the skull...

I thought bad weather, can't sand, waiting for stuff to happen before I move on...so went out an exchanged the Corsair. For the same price, I was able to get a better model...the Corsair H60...pic below:
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0340.jpg

[Neodymium]

OK, some of the supplies I have been waiting on have arrived...Sanding FTW :D

Left to right:
- Methyl Hydrate - for cleanup first
- Easy off - 1st step after I clean up - will use a sponge
- Grey primer for after sanding
- Tremclad textured hunter green (kind of dark green/black) - Still waiting on Green Black

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0346.jpg

Left to right - other supplies:
- Dyna Patch filler for before sanding - scratches, grooves, cuts etc.
- Epoxy - no plans for it yet, but we'll see
- Sanding sponges - Fine to very fine

So tomorrow - whether freezing my butt off or not, I will sand - in the garage.

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0347.jpg

I'll post pics as I go...

[Neodymium]

Also need some feedback, folks...to LED or not to LED? While it's a G5 case, except for the outline, except for a couple of things, nothing else will be G5 in it...so my son asked me today, would I put LEDs in it or not and that got me thinking...I am torn!!!!! Help please? Thanks!

[TLHarrell]

I'll toss this here so others can also benefit:

For sanding, I usually use regular wet/dry sandpaper and a wood block for finishing work. Sanding sponges are good for curved stuff, but if you're trying to flatten a surface out and remove irregularities you will find the sponge conforms and will sand down in the dips. A wood block planes over the irregularities and take off the high points.

The way I would do any of the added relief items on the outside of the case would be by casting them in resin. (Getting started with casting resin is a bit costly, but if you're doing a lot of mods it opens up a lot of cool things you can do by duplicating your work.) You could then mount the resin parts with screws, rivets or just double stick tape (servo tape for RC cars is the best).

Make your original part out of anything you want to work with. Basswood is perfect for the flatter shapes and can be cut and sanded extremely easily. You can also add plastic and other items as well. Bondo or clay will also work. You load up the basswood with sanding sealer, sand it, prime it, wet sand that so it's got a nice surface. Make sure everything's well smoothed and doesn't have a porous surface. Then cast a mold of that part in RTV silicone. TAP Plastics sells kits and supplies for casting. Some hardware stores carry similar. You'll have to look around for similar in your area. Basically, the mold is rubbery. You then cast resin (clear plasticky stuff) into that mold. Once cured, the molds are easy to peel off without damaging them, even molds with some overhang since the silicone is stretchy.

You will need:
1. Your original part, cleaned and sealed so it's not porous.
2. Silicone mold compound
3. Mold release agent for silicone molds
4. Casting resin
5. A small box to cast the silicone mold in (you can use the box as support for the mold when you cast the resin parts, then remove the box to make the mold flexible.

There are tutorials online for doing castings like this. It's not difficult if you prep correctly. You can make more than one casting from the same mold, and it makes for a very durable cast part. Added bonus, if you use clear resin, well... it's clear. You can add lighting inside it.

If you want something that's really integral to the side of the case and shows no seam where it attaches, you should do it out of metal if possible. You can form the shape from bondo, but it's not ideal. "Bondo", also referred to as "car body cheese" has a nasty habit of just falling off of the metal surface. It's best use is to act as a final smoother for a surface, not to fill big stuff. Build your sloping item out of metal or any other suitable base that is well attached with screws or rivets, then smooth the joints out with the bondo. Do this directly on bare metal. Alternatively, cut the metal case side and fold it out to form your slope, then add material as needed to close it up again.

When working with Bondo, remember that there's a short working time before you can't spread it around anymore. Starts out like peanut butter. Use this working time to get it close to your shape. Then it hardens up but is still a bit soft. Get to grinding as soon as possible if there's any spots you want to smooth out. After that softer time, about 30 minutes, it gets extremely hard. At this point, you're into blocking and fine sanding only as it's very tough to make a dent in it with anything short of air impact tools. Definitely try the stuff out on a scrap and just play with it to get a feel for it. It's got a bit of a learning curve that'll be a surprise the first time you use it.

[jdbnsn]

Is it ok if I rename your thread to ODST Legendary?

[Neodymium]

Is it ok if I rename your thread to ODST Legendary?

I was trying to find out how to change it myself, I would appreciate it if you can...many thanks, jdbnsn!!!!

[Neodymium]

So, after whining and groaning about my transmission, I decided to get back to the mod again...I was digging through my stash of shtuff and found this NZXT Sentry 2 Fan Controller which I am going to use in the front below the shield, Power/Reset will go on the right of it and USB will go on the left...I dont care much for front audio, so I am leaving that out. I cut out a slot for the front panel to fit the fan controller...it does look very cool with all the pretty colors :D

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0355.jpg
Here it is running (the fan on the right is animated...it's pretty cool):
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0348.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0353.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0354.jpg


I am also going to cut a slot (not decided where yet) to accommodate a multi card reader that I repurposed...
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0358.jpg

[AmEv]

How do I know that, that card reader came off of an HP?

[Neodymium]

How do I know that, that card reader came off of an HP?
LOL...yeah, it came off a media center, HP N8000 :up:

[SgtM]

Also need some feedback, folks...to LED or not to LED? While it's a G5 case, except for the outline, except for a couple of things, nothing else will be G5 in it...so my son asked me today, would I put LEDs in it or not and that got me thinking...I am torn!!!!! Help please? Thanks!

That should never be a question. ALWAYS LED!!!!!! :banana:

[Neodymium]

LED's it is...I'm going to take TLH's advise and carve out the pattern on the right panel in wood, then make a mould and put LEDs in them...I cant really do anything with the left panel, it's more decals and paint...I can however cut the orange part out, but that will not give me the effect...any thoughts?

[Aldersan]

Well, depending on your budget, you could always replace the orange section with clear plexi/orange LEDS or orange plexi and white LEDs or something like that, you could put LED's in your skull like you had mused about on one of the first pages, for the red eyes effect.

There's lots of things you can do with LEDs :D

[Neodymium]

Thanks, Alder...are you saying cut it out or just layer the plexi on top of the base metal and then add the LEDs?

[Aldersan]

I was thinking cut out the metal and put in the plexi in its place and light it with LED's on the edges

[Neodymium]

Hmmm...let me draw something out based on your idea, I will post back and go from there...thanks!

[Aldersan]

Sweet, I work tonight and my work amounts to sitting on my butt and browsing the interwebs (quite often TBCS) all night :P so I'll keep an eye out :D

[Neodymium]

OK, here we go...

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0360.jpg

My concern with cutting the metal out and inserting a plexi panel is as follows:
- See the dotted lines in the pic? They are either structural (part of the panel) or mechanical (the locking mechanism)...how do I go around without cutting those parts out...
- See the 4 little squares? The LEDs can be embedded into the panel (flat LEDs) edges...but how do I hide them without putting the plexi behind the panel cutout vs into the panel itself...

Let me know if I am not saying this straight...I'll try and do better :D

[Stonerboy779]

Have you considered lining the plexi with strip SMD LEDs? Opposed to individual LEDs

Also the other build you linked, using this case has a large plexi window cut in, ask them about how rigid the panel remained.

[Neodymium]

Thanks Stoner, that was one of the options for LEDs once I can decide upon the cut...

As for J-Roc's mod, he cut a clean square cut in the middle of the panel (without hitting any of the panel border or the latching mechanism), for my design, the plexi would pan over a larger and irregular area...

[Stonerboy779]

I am not sure why you would want to cut up there not too many components to see and you will see that supporting brace.

You could probably make do without that one locking mech but you may or may not fit plexi in over the rest of the brace anyway.

Have you considered lowering the window or changing the design of the stripe entirely?

[Aldersan]

I don't know if the purpose of the plexi was to be a window, or just to be some bling :D
I think the best bet for a "window" would be using transparent/tinted orange/blue plexi for the main panel, instead of the back pane, and then lighting those, so you could see a bit into the case but still get the details. Maybe it was just me, but I was thinking for the side he drew, it would be some fairly heavily tinted plexi, so you get the orange color but not seeing much inside.

[Neodymium]

I don't know if the purpose of the plexi was to be a window, or just to be some bling :D
I think the best bet for a "window" would be using transparent/tinted orange/blue plexi for the main panel, instead of the back pane, and then lighting those, so you could see a bit into the case but still get the details. Maybe it was just me, but I was thinking for the side he drew, it would be some fairly heavily tinted plexi, so you get the orange color but not seeing much inside.

Alder, there was never any intent to use plexi...the orange stripe is basically paint and sanded/polished to almost mirror finish...

I hear what Stoner's saying, maybe drop the stipe a little bit further down...I don't know if I want to change the design entirely without losing the essence of the theme itself...I didn't want to showcase anything inside the case anyway.

EDIT: Forgot to add that the "bling" was the color of ODST visor :D

[Aldersan]

Yeah I knew that you weren't planning on using plexi, I had just suggested it as a way to get some LEDs in the build :P As far as other ideas with the LEDs, you could possibly add some backlighting to the guns/skull.

[Neodymium]

Yeah I knew that you weren't planning on using plexi, I had just suggested it as a way to get some LEDs in the build :P As far as other ideas with the LEDs, you could possibly add some backlighting to the guns/skull.
Yup, I am with ya, I can go for a LED between the shield and skull...the skull will also have red LEDs for eyes...connected to HDD activity :D

I will figure out the panel on the side soon...Right now, the clay is almost dry on the skull, I will sand it a little bit tomorrow and then post the pics ;) I have made some modifications to the skull, tried to make it as realistic as possible (paper mache first, then moved onto clay on top...have to keep it between 4-5 inches tall at the most, so it wont take over the whole assembly)...

Then onto the SMGs...they're a wee bit easier than the skull...if I have time tomorrow, I will also work on the LEDs.

Cheers.

[Aldersan]

Yay, LEDs! Can't wait to see what you come up with!

[Neodymium]

I worked for a little bit on the skull again...still trying out the dollar store clay...I want to make sure I get it right when I use the more expensive DAS clay...Here's what I ended up with...the first pic is more or less the final design on the skull...still needs paint etc. Second pic is the LEDs (didn't have two reds, so used whatever I had handy :D)...the final LEDs will be white with a red plexi sheet covering the eye sockets. Now that I know how to do it, I am going to strip off the dollar store clay and rebuild it properly with DAS clay...

This is my first time trying sculpting something from nothing, so please go easy :)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0361-1.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0364-1.jpg

Next up...sculpting styrofoam for SMGs and shield from basswood! Thanks for viewing. Comments are welcome!

[Aldersan]

Looking great!

[Stonerboy779]

Great work neo cant wait to see the rest of that come together.

[Neodymium]

Thanks Stoner...lot of things still need to happen...thanks for the reminder ;)

- More slots in case for USB, power and card readers to be cut
- SMG and shield to be completed
- Sanding/Priming
- Painting
- UNSC Logo on the right/ODST design on the left panels
- Shield/SMG/Skull combo installation
- HW installation
- OS installation

I'm trying to do a little bit of each whenever I get time...I am hoping to complete this in the next month or so...

[Fuganater]

Love the skull

[Neodymium]

Love the skull
Thanks...the final product will be better :crossed: I didn't smooth it out completely. I will apply primer once it's fully completed and sand it down to be completely slick :)

Working on the guns today...they're much linear than the skull...so hopefully it won't take too long.

[Aldersan]

:pics:

[Neodymium]

:pics:

LOL...OK, I will have some pics of the guns this afternoon...

EDIT: Here's what I started working with for the guns...the blue stuff is fire retardant styrofoam used for insulation from the local HW store...

The guns will be made in 3 sections:
- Silencer
- Main gun assembly including the grip and handle/trigger
- Stock

I have to carve out each section, then apply either sealant as the overlay or just primer (if I can sand it down finely enough), then paint the primary flat black and apply detail at the end. Will take me a couple of days (whenever I can find time in the day) each for the carving, sanding, priming etc.

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0366.jpg

[Aldersan]

Can't wait, I'm at work all day and I've got nothing to do, forgot my laptop as well :(

[Neodymium]

Can't wait, I'm at work all day and I've got nothing to do, forgot my laptop as well :(
Sucks to work on the weekend, mate...you could've been working on your mod!

I'm sure there are folks online to keep you company through the day..lol

[Aldersan]

Lol, what sucks worse is the rest of my stuff I ordered was supposed to arrive today, so I could have been at home finishing up everything but the screen by now :( oh well, money is money..

But anyways, back on topic!
The mod is looking great, so yes more pictures would be good

[Neodymium]

Got some more supplies...carving the whole gun out of a single block is proving to be, lets say, challenging...so back to slicing the styrofoam into smaller sections as originally planned.

So below are some additions to the project
- Foam pipe
- 1/2" styrofoam insulation
- Small pipes (for silencer assembly)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0367.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0369.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0370-1.jpg

So, I am going to mould the filler around the smaller pipes...for silencers with styrofoam lengths for mid-section and stock. The foam pipe will be cut and shaped to size into grips with a styrofoam core...

As for the orange paint, I am sticking with the paint instead of the panel...thanks to all the folks that provided guidance and advise, however, it's more closer to my original plan and design...I might layer acrylic over it and embed LEDs at the edges to give an impression, but haven't planned on how much effort is involved...I'll think more about it.

[Aldersan]

Hmm, should be good when you get finished!
As for the paint/plexi, sticking with paint is in no way bad, you could make it look great, and if nothing else you could always mod it later or make a 2nd edition :D

Keep up the hard work!

[Neodymium]

Started working on the SMGs...took the styrofoam and cut of the basic shape first then started filing the styrofoam down to shape. What a PIT@A! Now I know what Waynio means when he says his hands hurt! After the Superbowl this aft, I will work on the guns again and hopefully will be done tonight...just need to make some attachments from the supplies I got earlier, round up the edges and then prime it for detail paint. I most probably am going to use acrylic on the styrofoam...Here's a couple of pics...(styrofoam dust everywhere!)...

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0371.jpg
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0372.jpg

[Aldersan]

Looking good! Sucks that your hands hurt, but that's the price we pay for the most badass pc's around :D

[Fuganater]

I couldn't imagine how long that is going to take.

[Neodymium]

I couldn't imagine how long that is going to take.
Hopefully not too long :crossed:

Here's a sneak peek at the layers...the skull has been layered with a filler and once it dries, I am going to do the filler again, smooth it out and then sand it down to make ready for priming.

The shield, now that I have the styrofoam, is going to be the easiest of the 3...just using a piece of cardboard to show the alignment.

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0375-1-1.jpghttp://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/DSCN0374-2.jpg

[Aldersan]

Looks great! Get some detail and some paint on them, now! :P

[Neodymium]

Looks great! Get some detail and some paint on them, now! :P
I'm trying, mate...but the bowl is on :D

EDIT: Ok, game's over...time to move on :)

[Neodymium]

Worked on the skull last night and a little bit today, sanded it a little bit, but not completely smooth, and primed it. Once it dries (overnight), I'm going to sand it a little more, and then do some detail. Will try and work on the guns a little more tonight.

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/IMG_0018.jpg

That's it for now.

[Neodymium]

Worked some more on the front piece...carved the base outline of the skull and measured...next up is filing the shield. Thinking about getting black latex paint - regular paints will eat through the styrofoam. For the skull, I'm going to use White acrylic with a matte enamel topcoat.

Lined up the semi-finished pieces to see what it would look like:

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/IMG_0028-1.jpg

Once all is done, this will be the final rendition:

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj613/Ne0dymium_/IMG_0029-1.jpg

Once detailing is done (hopefully if I can get time tonight), I will make the necessary holes etc for the dowels which will hold all of this together. I also need to hook up red LEDs to the wiring which will come through the eyes. I'm planning to do some ambi-lighting behind the skull but in front of the shield to get some effect. I will post more pics of progress. Once this part is done, then I can move onto the case again.

Comments or suggestions are welcome. Thanks for viewing.

[Stonerboy779]

Taking shape and starting to look good.

However did you consider buying some cheap toy water guns or something similar and just spray painting them black? That way you could get an insane amount of detail quick and easy?

[Aldersan]

Its looking amazing, just looks a bit thick for my tastes lol, still amazing regardless! Keep it up!

[Neodymium]

Taking shape and starting to look good.

However did you consider buying some cheap toy water guns or something similar and just spray painting them black? That way you could get an insane amount of detail quick and easy?

Thank you. I have not considered that idea yet, very innovative :D I did find an adapter at Home Depot for the spray can and I think it will make it easier.


Its looking amazing, just looks a bit thick for my tastes lol, still amazing regardless! Keep it up!

That's the whole point isn't it :D Thanks for the kind words though...appreciate it.

[Neodymium]

After a long hiatus, I am back on the project. It's been a rough few months for me, with a lot of life changes. Things are finally getting back on track and I can refocus my efforts on this. New updates will follow starting this weekend.

Hopefully, this time, I will stay on target and finish the project.

[Fuganater]

Awesome news! Can't wait to see the progress.

[Neodymium]

Awesome news! Can't wait to see the progress.
Thank you...sometimes the things life throws at you :hurt:
But get through with friends by your side :up:

I'm going to start by finishing the shield, SMGs and the skull over this weekend. Then I can really focus on the case itself.

I have to figure out how to use whatever I have in hand and "finish the fight"...no more money :)